Government plans to solve knotweed issue

The UK government hopes to solve the countrys Japanese knotweed problem by introducing tiny insects into certain areas.

Aphalara itadori is a non-native psyllid that preys on the sap from the troublesome knotweed species.

A trial release of the jumping insects will take place in order for specialists to monitor the impact of the bugs on other species.

Experts will be on hand with pesticides on the off chance that things do not go to plan and the insects damage other plants.

It is the first time a non-native species has been introduced into a European environment for control purposes.

However, wildlife minister Huw Irranca-Davies is hopeful that the "ground-breaking" plan will be a success, even claiming that it could redress the natural balance.

Meanwhile, the Royal Horticultural Society recently revealed that honey fungus is the most problematic plant disease for UK gardeners.